CREAMY BAKED MAC AND CHEESE

Step-by-Step Instructions (Creamy, Cheesy, Foolproof)

1. Cook the Pasta

• Boil pasta in salted water until al dente (1–2 minutes less than package directions). Drain; set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce

• Melt 4 tbsp butter in a large pot over medium heat.
• Whisk in flour; cook 1–2 minutes until golden (don’t brown).
• Gradually whisk in warm milk; simmer 3–5 minutes until thickened (coats the back of a spoon).
• Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
• Add Dijon, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and white pepper. Taste and adjust.

3. Combine & Transfer

• Stir cooked pasta into cheese sauce until fully coated.
• Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

4. Add the Crumb Topping

• Mix panko, Parmesan, melted butter, and paprika. Sprinkle evenly over mac and cheese.

5. Bake to Perfection

• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and topping is golden brown.
• Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving (sauce will thicken slightly).

Serving Suggestions

• 🍗 Classic pairing: With fried chicken or meatloaf
• 🥦 Balanced plate: Steamed broccoli or green beans
• 🥓 Extra indulgence: Top with crispy bacon or jalapeños
• 🍷 Holiday favorite: Alongside roasted turkey or ham

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Fridge: Assemble unbaked; cover and refrigerate up to 1 day. Bake as directed (+5–10 mins).
• Freeze: Bake, cool, then freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight; reheat covered at 350°F.
• Reheat: Add splash of milk; cover with foil to retain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use GF pasta + GF flour or cornstarch slurry (mix 3 tbsp cornstarch + 3 tbsp cold milk; stir in after warming milk).

Q: Can I use all cheddar?
A: Yes—but Gruyère/fontina adds meltability and depth. For best texture, use at least two cheeses.

Q: Sauce too thick?

A: Thin with warm milk. Too thin? Simmer longer before adding pasta.

Q: No panko?
A: Use crushed crackers, cornflakes, or regular breadcrumbs.

❤️ The Heart of the Dish

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese isn’t just a side—it’s a bowl of pure comfort. It’s what you make when you want to nourish your family, impress guests, or simply treat yourself to something deeply satisfying.

So melt that cheese, toss that pasta, and bake with love. Because the best meals aren’t complicated—they’re creamy, cheesy, and made with love.

“Good food doesn’t need a recipe—it just needs cheese, pasta, and someone hungry.” 🧀✨